Greek Chicken Souvlaki
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The marinated grilled chicken is succulent and flavorful, served in warm pita bread alongside fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce. With its bright Mediterranean flavors and easy preparation, Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a standout meal that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than two hours, including marinating time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The marinade features zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy the chicken on warm pita or over a fresh salad for a lighter option.
- Grill or Oven: Cook these skewers on the grill for that smoky flavor or bake them in the oven when outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or toppings to personalize each serving just how you like it.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki, you’ll need some essential tools to help with the preparation and cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
- Grill or oven
- Large zip-top bag or bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet (for oven method)
Importance of Each Tool
- Skewers: Essential for holding the marinated chicken as it cooks, allowing even grilling or baking.
- Grill/Oven: Provides flexibility in cooking methods; choose based on your preference and weather conditions.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing the marinade ingredients thoroughly, ensuring all flavors meld.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For Serving
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 plum tomatoes, sliced
- Tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread (khubz)
- Lemon slices, for squeezing
How to Make Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the cubed chicken in a large zip-top bag or bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour this marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag while removing excess air and toss to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 45 minutes to 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.
Step 2: Prepare Skewers
Remove chicken from the marinade. Thread pieces onto skewers while leaving space between them. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Step 3: Grill Method
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill the skewers for about 8–10 minutes. Turn occasionally until golden brown and check that the internal temperature reaches 163°F. You may baste once with reserved marinade during grilling but discard any leftovers afterward. Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes post-grilling (it will continue cooking until it reaches 165°F). If desired, warm pita on the grill at this time.
Step 4: Oven Method
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange chicken cubes on a greased baking sheet in a single layer. Bake on the top oven rack for around 5–7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 163°F. Let rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Serve grilled chicken on warm pita bread topped with sliced tomatoes, red onions, tzatziki sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
With this easy-to-follow recipe for Greek Chicken Souvlaki, you can bring delightful Mediterranean flavors right into your home!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Serving Greek Chicken Souvlaki is all about enhancing its vibrant flavors and creating a delightful meal experience. Here are some tasty suggestions to enjoy this dish.
With Fresh Salad
- Greek Salad: Toss together cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a refreshing side.
- Tabbouleh: A parsley and bulgur wheat salad that adds a fresh, zesty note.
On Pita Bread
- Pita Wraps: Layer the marinated chicken with tzatziki, tomatoes, and onions in warm pita for an easy meal.
- Pita Chips: Serve crispy pita chips on the side for a crunchy addition.
With Dips
- Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt dip complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
- Hummus: A rich chickpea dip that pairs well with the flavors of souvlaki.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled Zucchini and Peppers: Charred veggies provide a smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can add a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
How to Perfect Greek Chicken Souvlaki
To achieve the best Greek Chicken Souvlaki, follow these simple tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour enhances its flavor and tenderness.
- Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat ensures a nice char while keeping the inside juicy.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning during grilling.
- Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leaving space between chicken pieces allows for even cooking and better browning.
- Rest Before Serving: Letting the chicken rest helps retain juices, making each bite tender and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Complement your Greek Chicken Souvlaki with these delicious side dishes that bring out its Mediterranean flair.
- Fried Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, they pair beautifully with souvlaki.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked in broth adds a subtle flavor that balances the spices in the chicken.
- Mediterranean Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables makes for a great grain option.
- Roasted Eggplant Dip (Baba Ganoush): Smoky eggplant dip provides a tasty contrast to the grilled flavors.
- Fattoush Salad: A mixed vegetable salad with crispy pita pieces offers freshness and crunch.
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory bites filled with rice and herbs complement souvlaki wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating and grilling can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow at least 45 minutes for the marinade to penetrate the chicken.
- Overcrowding Skewers: Stuffing too much chicken onto skewers can result in uneven cooking. Thread pieces with space in between for better heat circulation.
- Ignoring Temperature: Not checking the internal temperature may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold chicken can affect cooking time and texture. Bring chicken to room temperature before grilling for better results.
- Not Resting the Chicken: Cutting into grilled chicken immediately can cause juices to escape, making it dry. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Ensure that the chicken is completely cooled before refrigerating.
Freezing Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Freeze cooked Greek Chicken Souvlaki in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and warm the chicken, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Greek Chicken Souvlaki.
What is Greek Chicken Souvlaki?
Greek Chicken Souvlaki is a popular street food made from marinated grilled chicken served on pita bread with vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
Can I use different meats?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken, you can substitute lamb, beef, or pork using similar marinades and grilling methods.
How do I make homemade tzatziki sauce?
To make tzatziki sauce, mix Greek yogurt with diced cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and dill. Adjust ingredients as desired!
Can I grill Greek Chicken Souvlaki indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, use a grill pan on your stovetop or bake in the oven at 350°F until cooked through.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately four servings, perfect for family meals or gatherings!
Final Thoughts
This Greek Chicken Souvlaki is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping proteins. Perfect for any meal occasion, it brings Mediterranean flair right to your table. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Greek Chicken Souvlaki
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Description
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Greece with this easy and delicious Greek Chicken Souvlaki recipe. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this dish features tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Each bite is infused with zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, delivering a burst of flavor that will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of Greece. Serve the succulent chicken in warm pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy tzatziki sauce for a delightful meal that impresses family and friends alike. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- 2 plum tomatoes (sliced)
- Tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add cubed chicken to the mixture and refrigerate for 45 minutes.
- Prepare skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat; cook skewers for 8–10 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Enjoy the grilled chicken in warm pita bread with sliced vegetables and tzatziki sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (about 200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
